Lee Xiao Ai
“I came across a newspaper article promoting an education fund sponsored by Sin Chew Daily. One of the programmes offered was the Sunway TES CAE programme. Realizing this education fund could ease the financial burden on my parents tremendously, I gave it a shot.”
Hello! I'm Xiao Ai, an ACCA student from Puchong, home of savoury dim sum and egg tarts. Since young, my parents have been incredibly vocal in providing the best support for my sister and me, whether in education, extracurriculars, or personal development. For example, my mom has always been quite critical of me practicing and mastering the piano. And while it can get overwhelming at times, I truly believe that her tough love has bolstered me to become more resolute in the face of adversity.
After finishing my STPM, I was affirmed that my passion was in accounting, and I was determined to pursue that. But unfortunately, none of my local universities offered any accounting courses. However, one day while brooding over my choices, I came across a newspaper article promoting an education fund sponsored by Sin Chew Daily. One of the programmes offered was the Sunway TES CAE programme. Realizing this education fund could ease the financial burden on my parents tremendously, I gave it a shot.
However, my interview session did not go as well as planned, and I was convinced I would not get it...but I did! Words could not describe the exhilaration I felt at that moment. I knew I had taken a giant step towards achieving my dream to be a charted accountant. This scholarship has vouchsafed me with the freedom to focus on my studies, participate in extracurricular activities, and enjoy my college life to the fullest! Without this scholarship, I would probably be studying in another education institution, far from my family and on a completely different career path.
My best moments in Sunway have to be my time with the Sunway TES Accounting Club; I've met and worked with many fantastic and talented individuals there. Sometimes, we have to plan and execute huge events, which can be quite demanding. Still, I don't regret it, as this has been an exceptional opportunity for my personal growth. So many tears and joy were shed with this amazing club. Furthermore, I would like to extend my gratitude to all my lecturers; they have always been incredibly patient and kind in answering my doubts. Needless to say, the facilities here at Sunway College and University are also excellent. For instance, Sunway cafeteria has been a constant favourite of mine for its abundant food selections at such affordable prices (P.S the waffles are the best!). Furthermore, the Sunway library also has a certain je ne sais quoi that inspires me to study hard every time, especially with its various amenities offered.
To the readers of #MySunwayStory, we are all led by our guts instincts, our desire and fears, and our dreams, so don't worry about screwing things up. Life is like the ocean; it ebbs and flows. But we will heal, learn, and grow along the way. Form strong connections and strive hard to pursue your ambitions. Accept failures, dare to step out of your comfort zone, and know that we're in this together. Trust me, you've got this!
Lee Xiao Ai
Association Of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
Sin Chew Tertiary Education Fund
